This publication, based on a 2002 presentation given before the League for Innovation, offers advice to community colleges for applying for outside funding for innovative programs. The presentation is in a question/answer format. Some of the questions asked and answered include the following: Question (Q): What should drive the development of a grant proposal? Answer (A): Student needs that are not being met to the degree they should, problems that have not been adequately addressed, and program enhancements that have not been implemented due to funding/resource complaints. Q: How do I determine what funding sources are available? A: Network with other colleges, successful grant writers, and funding agencies; estimate the odds; and keep abreast of the literature through Web sites, listservs, newsletters, and professional journals. Q: How can I format my proposal so readers will fund it? A: Follow the directions, secure the reader's scorecard from the funding source or an already funded grant, and consider the selection criteria section of the application packet. Q: How can I gain a competitive edge in the proposal writing process? A: Assume the role of the reader by considering whether the document is negotiable, logical, visually pleasing, and readable. Includes some excerpts from successful proposals. (NB)